DIHAD Strengthens Humanitarian Cooperation In Asia Pacific Through High-Level Session In Bangkok

The DIHAD Sustainable Organisation recently facilitated a significant session titled "Revisiting Humanitarian Partnerships in the Era of Humanitarian Reset" during the Regional Humanitarian Partnership Week Asia Pacific 2025 in Bangkok. This gathering aimed to explore how global challenges are influencing partnerships and to pinpoint opportunities for more inclusive and sustainable humanitarian outcomes across the region.

Co-hosted with ActionAid International, the session included representatives from various sectors such as the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, UNICEF, governments, civil society, and private enterprises. Discussions focused on evolving partnerships amid changing priorities and funding constraints, stressing the importance of aligning global strategies with regional needs for effective humanitarian action.

Speakers underscored the significance of locally led initiatives, capacity-building, and community-driven decision-making. They emphasised that sustainable humanitarian responses rely on empowering communities by leveraging local knowledge and fostering transparent partnerships. Cooperation among governments, UN agencies, NGOs, and the private sector is crucial to addressing increasingly complex crises.

Abdulsalam Al Madani, Chairman of DIHAD Sustainable Organisation and DISAB, highlighted that partnerships are vital for effective humanitarian action. He expressed gratitude to Thailand and event organisers for supporting dialogue and collaboration. Al Madani noted that progress hinges on long-term cooperation that enhances community capacity and fosters self-reliance.

Farah Kabir, Country Director of ActionAid Bangladesh, pointed out that humanitarian challenges are becoming more intricate, necessitating a reset in approaches. She advocated for partnerships rooted in respect, clarity, and accountability. The panel featured Khaled Al Attar from DIHAD Sustainable Organisation; Elkhan Rahimov from IFRC; June Kunugi from UNICEF; Srikanta Misra from ActionAid Afghanistan; moderated by Hoang Phuong Thao of ActionAid Vietnam.

The discussion showcased DIHAD's role as a regional and global convener through initiatives like the DIHAD Humanitarian College and Conference. These platforms connect practitioners, policymakers, and innovators. Supported by UAE Aid, United Nations entities, IFRC, Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives, Dubai Humanitarian efforts continue to promote local leadership and innovation.

Integrated Efforts for Resilience

Participants agreed that effective humanitarian collaboration requires integrated efforts in policy development, capacity building, funding allocation, and local engagement. They affirmed that sustained investment in strategic partnerships is essential for strengthening resilience and ensuring no one is left behind.

The session concluded with a consensus on the need for continuous support for local leadership initiatives to foster inclusive partnerships. By doing so, communities can better prepare for future challenges while ensuring timely responses to crises.

With inputs from WAM